Applying for a Partner Visa Australia can be both an exciting and overwhelming journey. Whether you’re already living in Australia with your partner or planning to reunite with them from overseas, understanding the various subclasses like Partner Visa 820, Partner Visa 801, Partner Visa 309, and Partner Visa 100 is essential. Each visa has its own set of rules, timelines, and benefits — and in this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know in simple, human language.
What Is a Partner Visa in Australia?
A Partner Visa Australia allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. The visa process generally occurs in two stages:
- Temporary visa stage (like subclass 820 or 309)
- Permanent visa stage (like subclass 801 or 100)
Let’s break down each visa type.
1. Partner Visa Subclass 820 (Temporary – Onshore)
The Partner Visa 820 is for applicants who are already inside Australia. It is the first step toward gaining permanent residency.
Key Features:
- Allows you to stay in Australia while your permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801) is processed.
- You can work and study in Australia.
- You must be in Australia when applying and when the visa is granted.
Who Can Apply?
You must be in a genuine relationship with your partner, who is either:
- An Australian citizen,
- An Australian permanent resident, or
- An eligible New Zealand citizen.
You’ll need to provide evidence like joint bank accounts, rental agreements, photos, chat logs, and more.
2. Partner Visa Subclass 801 (Permanent – Onshore)
The Partner Visa 801 is the permanent version that follows after the 820 visa.
What You Get:
- Permanent residency in Australia
- Access to Medicare
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
- Sponsor eligible family members
When Can You Apply?
Usually, around two years after you’ve applied for the 820 visa. However, if you’ve been in a long-term relationship (3 years or more, or 2 years with a child), you may be eligible for the permanent visa sooner.
3. Partner Visa Subclass 309 (Temporary – Offshore)
If you’re outside of Australia, the Partner Visa 309 is your first step. This visa lets you live in Australia while waiting for the permanent visa (subclass 100) to be processed.
Eligibility:
- Be outside of Australia during the application and grant of the visa.
- Be in a genuine, ongoing relationship.
- Be sponsored by your partner (citizen or permanent resident).
What It Allows:
- Live, work, and study in Australia.
- Access Medicare once the visa is granted.
- Travel freely in and out of the country.
4. Partner Visa Subclass 100 (Permanent – Offshore)
The Partner Visa 100 is the permanent version of the 309 visa. It allows you to stay in Australia indefinitely and opens doors for more opportunities.
Main Benefits:
- Full permanent resident rights
- Access to Medicare
- Sponsor your partner or children for Australian visas
- Apply for Australian citizenship (after meeting residency requirements)
Usually, the Partner Visa 100 is granted two years after you’ve applied for the 309 visa, provided your relationship is still genuine and ongoing.
What’s the Difference Between Onshore and Offshore Partner Visas?
| Feature | Subclass 820/801 (Onshore) | Subclass 309/100 (Offshore) |
|---|---|---|
| Applicant Location | Must be in Australia | Must be outside Australia |
| Temporary Visa (First Step) | Subclass 820 | Subclass 309 |
| Permanent Visa (Second Step) | Subclass 801 | Subclass 100 |
| Processing Time | Varies (usually 12–24 months) | Varies (usually 12–24 months) |
Tips to Strengthen Your Partner Visa Application
- Evidence Is Everything
Immigration authorities need to see that your relationship is real. Provide as much evidence as possible, including:- Joint leases or utility bills
- Travel itineraries
- Photos together
- Statements from friends and family
- Consistency in Your Story
Your written statements and your partner’s should match in terms of dates, how you met, and major relationship milestones. - Use a Migration Agent (Optional but Helpful)
If you’re unsure, using a registered migration agent can increase your chances of approval by ensuring everything is correct and complete.
Partner Visa Processing Time
The partner visa processing time varies depending on your subclass:
- Partner Visa 820: 13 to 21 months
- Partner Visa 801: 6 to 12 months (after 820 wait)
- Partner Visa 309: 12 to 18 months
- Partner Visa 100: 6 to 12 months (after 309 wait)
Remember, delays can happen if your documents are missing or if further checks are required.
Partner Visa Costs
As of 2025, the application fee for the combined temporary and permanent partner visa is AUD $8,850. This covers both stages of the visa.
Additional costs may include:
- Medical exams
- Police checks
- Translating documents (if required)
Partner Visa and Work Rights
One of the biggest concerns for applicants is whether they can work while waiting. Here’s how it works:
- If you apply for a Partner Visa 820 onshore, you’ll usually get a Bridging Visa A (BVA) with full work rights.
- Once your Partner Visa 309 is granted, you can legally work in Australia.
Common Reasons for Partner Visa Refusal
Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Lack of evidence of your relationship
- Providing misleading information
- Applying while still legally married to someone else
- Not meeting health or character requirements
Final Thoughts
Applying for a Partner Visa Australia, whether it’s the 820, 801, 309, or 100, is not just about paperwork. It’s about proving the depth and sincerity of your relationship. With proper documentation, patience, and possibly the help of a migration expert, you can confidently navigate the process and begin a new chapter with your loved one in Australia.
Whether you’re already onshore or preparing to arrive from overseas, knowing the right subclass and preparing your application thoroughly can make all the difference. Australia offers a warm welcome to genuine couples, and with the right steps, you’ll be on your way to building a future together here.
